Ruto Breaks Silence After Gachagua Attack in Othaya During a Church Service

President William Ruto has finally addressed the violent incident that disrupted a church service in Othaya, Nyeri County, where former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua was present.

Speaking on Sunday, February 1, at the PEFA All Nations Gospel Church in Gikomba, Ruto strongly condemned chaos and the use of force in places of worship. He warned against turning churches into political battlegrounds, stressing that such spaces should remain peaceful and respectful.

The President urged Kenyans to separate politics from religious gatherings, saying that churches must remain sacred regardless of political differences.

He called on leaders and citizens to uphold dignity in religious spaces, emphasizing that hatred, violence, and political rivalry have no place in churches. According to Ruto, places of worship should serve as centres of unity, peace, and spiritual reflection.

Ruto’s remarks come amid growing controversy following an incident in Othaya, where a church service was disrupted after a teargas canister was reportedly thrown inside the church compound. The event had attracted several dignitaries, including Gachagua.

The former Deputy President later claimed he was forced to escape through nearby bushes, describing the incident as a deliberate attempt on his life. The situation has since sparked a heated exchange of accusations between the opposition and the government.

The National Police Service defended its actions, arguing that Gachagua and his team should have informed local security agencies before attending the church event.

In his address, Ruto also directed security officers to act with caution and restraint when dealing with situations involving religious gatherings. He stressed that security agencies must protect churches from unnecessary conflict and political interference.

Following the Othaya incident, opposition leaders, including Rigathi Gachagua, Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, and Peoples Liberation Party leader Martha Karua, held talks with Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja on January 30. During the meeting, Kanja expressed his commitment to improving cooperation and communication between political leaders and the police.

Days later, Gachagua and other opposition figures attended another church service in Murang’a, an event that was characterised by a heavy police presence, highlighting ongoing tensions in the political landscape.